Monday, April 30, 2007

So, say you were meeting a new person--blind date, new friend, who knows. And you wanted them to have some idea of what kind of person you are, and who you are. But you can't actually tell them in so many words. Instead, you have to give them a box, with a dozen or so things in it for them to look at/read/listen to/taste/whatever. "What would you put in the box? And a copy of your journal or a link to your blog would be the same thing as just telling them directly, yourself, so that's not allowed."------------------------------------------

Thursday, April 19, 2007

I am disgusted and appalled by the Justice secretary. In an interview with the Inquirer, Gonzales made this comment about the death of US Peace Corps volunteer, Julia Campbell. While irresponsible comments come out almost naturally from his filthy mouth, this however is extremely insensitive.

Saturday, April 14, 2007

When you work in a hotel, a celebrity encounter is not far fetched. Since 2004, I have met an MP, a rugby team, a home make-over host and a member of the royal family. Last night, I had the pleasure of meeting the actor who played one of the most iconic characters in film. Kenny Baker, known to geeks as r2d2, checked in to the hotel with his wife.

He is the smallest man I've ever seen! Standing at less than four feet, he is the epitome of the word pint-sized. His other half is even taller than him by a few more inches.

One of my staff, who is a huge fan (no pun intended!) of Star Wars, couldn't contain his excitement. He asked for a picture with Kenny and autograph to which the latter gamely obliged. "For the first time in my life, Iam glad I went to work", I heard him say after. The wide grin never leaving his face.

Forgive me if I don't share my staff's enthusiasm after meeting r2d2. I just don't get the fuss about Star Wars. In fact, it was only two years ago when I saw the original triology. And I only found it okay, cheesy but okay. I haven't even seen the prequels, and judging from all the reviews, I don't think I ever will.

In any case, I was still amused. After all, it's not everyday you meet somebody from a galaxy far, far away.

Sunday, April 08, 2007

Today, the Christian world commemorates the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Easter as it is popularly called, is one of the most important Christian festivals. As a Catholic, I went to church this morning to take part in the celebration and to ask Him for forgiveness and salvation.

Before the first reading, something funny happened. The lector said: "A reading from the Acts of the Apostles." Suddenly a kid's voice echoed in the hall, "Mummy, did you fart?"

There was a faint chuckle from the crowd. I looked up and saw that even the priest let out a smile.

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After the mass, I went to the Brenchley Gardens at the centre of town. The sun is out and the sky is clear, so I figured it'll be great to take some pictures. I've been living in Maidstone for almost a year now but it was only today that I went to this town's first public park. Spring has just started and so most of the plants and trees are not in bloom yet. Nevertheless, I was still mesmerised by the park's simple charm. I will definitely come back in the summer to check it out.

Weather forecasts say that we are going to have more sun for the rest of the week. I hope this holds true because I'm going to Wales! Unfortunately, the trip is not entirely for pleasure. I will be with my manager and fellow supervisors for our team building. We are also checking out our hotel chain's newly opened property.

Friday, April 06, 2007

I came upon this in schumey's blog. Ninoy's letter to his son strikes a cord not only because of its sincerity but because of its relevance despite it being written 34 years ago.

I was having second thoughts in supporting Nonoy's senatorial bid for two reasons. The first being the plight of the workers in Hacienda Luisita and secondly, his running under the auspices of Erap. If Noynoy's motive in sharing this letter is to woo voters, he succeeded. At least in my case. I know that the father is not the son and Nonoy still has to prove his worth as a statesman, however, I am willing to gamble on him because of his audacity to stand up to an oppressive and corrupt regime.

Also, I'd like to point out how beautiful and inspiring the letter is. The letter may not be addressed to me but it provokes its readers to act and do his/her share as a citizen of the country.

Next month, we will cast our votes. Our responsibility is not just to take part in the election process. It begins with the process of knowing who the candidates are. Scrutinising their characters and understanding their positions on issues that not only concern our immediate needs but the needs others. Getting to know them to make sure we make an educated judgment. Our responsibility also extends to guarding the sanctity of the ballots. Ensuring that the election is clean and free of fraud. And finally by refusing to accept any form of deception by fighting for our rights to deserve a just and honest government.

About Me

A former work colleague described me as an England-based Japanese-looking Filipino with a Spanish name and an American accent. I drink Belgian beer in Irish pubs and frequent Chinese buffets when lunching out. For breakfast, Scottish haggis is a must and Italian dinners always leave satisfied. Latin-American cinema facinates me and French architecture makes my head reel, in a good way. I once smoked a Cuban cigar and absolutely loved it. One day I'll visit Chile, Morocco and Vietnam. I'll try everything once. From eating Jamaican patty whilst playing Russian roulette to downing Singapore slings after dancing the Viennese waltz. I'll even camp out in the Australian outback as long as I stay away from the Brazilian wax.
But if you really want to know me in acht Wörter, Ako ay isang Batanguenyong-Kabitenyo na ipinanganak sa Mindoro.